Ah, Fall; the season that is cardigans, candles, and pumpkin spice EVERYTHING. While the transition from pool parties and flip-flops to decaying leaves and schoolwork may be a breeze to some, others are less than gently reminded of the dull ache that is seasonal depression. For most, SAD, or seasonal affective disorder, begins in the fall and carries on throughout the winter months; making those who are affected feel less than enthusiastic about living their day to day lives, (more in depth information about this disorder can be found here). As someone who experiences SAD, and at times needs to be reminded of self love aids and reliefs, I write this post in hopes that it will genuinely help someone who is struggling with stress.  So, whether you have come here with the hopes of soothing your mental health, or you are just having a bit of a rough day and are looking for a little pick-me-up, I hope these few tips and tricks put you on the right path to promoting creativity and celebrating your efforts.  So, without further ado,  here is, “5 Ways to Indulge in Self-Love”; Fall Edition!

1. Appropriate Attire

After a long day of classes and forced socialization at my university, I savor when I can go back to my room and transform into what looks like a homeless gnome. So, if you too are dying to recreate this insane runway look and achieve Ultimate Comfort Status,  read on!

First of all, rid yourself of that over the shoulder boulder holder! No longer are the girls restricted by societal regularities! Embrace the boobies!

Second of all, grab your favorite long t-shirt or sweatshirt and throw it on over your favorite pair of fuzzy sweatpants. 

Last, but not least, grab your favorite pair of tall fuzzy socks! (extra points if they’re seasonal!). My go-to’s are aloe-vera infused to promote productivity and stress relief! Check them out here!

2. Breathe in the Hippy Fumes, Exhale the Bullshit

Specific essential oils, such as, peppermint and lavender, aid in relieving feelings of anxiety and depression. My diffuser is an absolute essential to survive doing mass amounts of homework and not going entirely insane. The one that I currently depend on can be found here!

3. Hangry

Go directly to your pantry and grab the Oreos. Do not feel guilty, do not hesitate. Treat yo self!

You deserve it! Pop the popcorn, brew the coffee, whatever you fancy, and devour it! I definitely go directly for the Cheez-it’s personally!

4. Cocoon

You are currently a stressed and grumpy caterpillar. With the correct fashion, and the scent of soothing lavender in the air, now it is time to undergo metamorphosis. You are going to develop into an energized and carefree butterfly. Now that you have diabetes in one hand, and the largest, most softest blanket you could find in the other, become one with the burrito, and cocoon inside your blanket.

5. Lights, Camera, Action

Now for the final step; picking the perfect movie. Here is a short list of some of my all time favorites:

• Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron

– You cannot go wrong with this damn movie, hence why it is at the top of the list.

– If you are looking to CHASE THE SUNSET AND DEMAND YOUR FREEDOM, this is the movie for you!

-Plus horses

• Any Throwback Disney Movie

-Instant mood booster

– Plus THE best soundtracks

-Recite every line by heart

• Dirty Dancing

– Amazing sountrack

-Plus Patrick Swayze’s back muscles

• Fried Green Tomatoes

-You’re going to cry; accept it

• Where the Heart is

-The Walmart baby

-You’ll probably cry, no judgement

• The Breakfast Club

-It’s a classic for a reason

• Fear

-17 year old Mark Wahlberg; enough said

If all else fails, just binge watch Law and Order: SVU, and fall in love with Olivia Benson.

You now know all the steps to Achieve Ultimate Comfort status, now stay there for an unhealthy amount of time! I hope this gave you a few tips to relieve some of the stress in your life!

Sincerely,

Your favorite millennial asshole